Top Reasons the 2026 Toyota Highlander Excels in Canadian Winters

When Ontario winter weather brings snow, ice, and temperatures that swing from above freezing to well below zero in a matter of hours, your SUV needs to handle more than just getting from point A to point B. The 2026 Toyota Highlander lineup addresses winter driving through a combination of all-wheel-drive systems, hybrid and gas powertrain options, and cold-weather features designed for Canadian conditions. This comparison breaks down what makes the Highlander capable in winter weather and helps you evaluate which variant fits your driving patterns across Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area.

The Highlander family offers seven configurations split between gas and hybrid-electric powertrains, all equipped with all-wheel drive as standard. Understanding the differences between these systems helps you match the right vehicle to your winter driving needs.

At a Glance: 2026 Highlander Lineup Winter Capabilities

All-Wheel-Drive Systems Explained

Dynamic Torque All-Wheel-Drive (XLE Gas Model)

The Highlander XLE gas model uses Dynamic Torque AWD, which can direct up to 50% of available power to the rear wheels when sensors detect slippage at the front wheels. When cruising on dry pavement, the system can disconnect the rear driveline entirely to improve fuel efficiency.

For winter driving in Ontario, this system provides adequate traction for most conditions including snow-covered roads and icy patches. The system responds automatically without driver input.

Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (XSE, Limited, Platinum Gas Models)

The XSE, Limited, and Platinum gas models upgrade to Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which adds the ability to distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels. This helps maintain stability when cornering on slippery surfaces—a common situation when navigating snow-covered highway on-ramps or making turns on icy intersections.

The system includes Drive Mode Select with settings for Normal, Eco, and Sport modes, plus a dedicated Snow mode that adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points for better control on low-traction surfaces. The Driveline Disconnect feature still operates to improve fuel economy when AWD isn't needed.

Electronic On-Demand AWD (All Hybrid Models)

Highlander Hybrid models use a different AWD approach. A separate electric motor mounted at the rear axle powers the rear wheels when needed. This system responds instantly because electric motors deliver full torque from zero RPM.

For winter driving, the instant response of the rear electric motor helps recover traction quickly when front wheels encounter ice or snow. The system operates seamlessly without mode selection—it simply engages the rear motor when sensors detect the need for additional traction.

Powertrain Options and Winter Performance

2.4-Litre Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine (Gas Models)

The gas-powered Highlander uses a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with stop-start technology paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain generates 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque.

The turbocharger provides strong low-end torque, which matters when pulling away from a stop on slippery surfaces or merging onto highways in winter traffic. The eight-speed automatic offers a wide ratio spread that helps maintain engine power in the optimal range.

Gas Highlander models can tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) and include Trailer Sway Control to help manage unwanted trailer movement in crosswinds or on icy roads.

2.5-Litre Hybrid System (Hybrid Models)

Highlander Hybrid models pair a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The combined system output is 243 horsepower.

The hybrid system delivers fuel efficiency rated at 6.7 L/100 km city/highway combined—significantly better than the gas models. This translates to fewer fuel stops during winter months and lower operating costs.

Hybrid models can tow up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), which handles most recreational trailers or utility trailers needed for Ontario lifestyle activities.

The hybrid system's instant electric motor torque provides smooth, controlled power delivery—particularly useful when starting from a stop on ice where gradual power application helps maintain traction.

Cold-Weather Features Across the Lineup

Heated Surfaces and Climate Control

All Highlander models include heated front seats as standard equipment. Higher trims add:

• Heated and ventilated front seats (Limited, Platinum)
• Heated second-row seats (Hybrid Platinum)
• Three-zone independent automatic climate control (all Hybrid models)
• Dual-zone or three-zone climate control (gas models vary by trim)

The multi-zone climate control lets front and rear passengers set different temperatures, which helps manage comfort when layers of winter clothing affect how people experience cabin temperature.

Visibility Features

Winter driving in Ontario often means dealing with reduced visibility from snow, sleet, and early darkness. The Highlander addresses this through:

• LED fog lamps (XLE and above)
• Premium LED headlamps (Limited, Platinum)
• Rain-sensing wipers (Platinum)
• Automatic high beams (all models via Toyota Safety Sense 2.5)
• Head-up display (Platinum)

Note: The 2026 Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, not the newer 3.0 system found on some other 2026 Toyota models.

Ground Clearance and Approach Angles

The Highlander sits high enough to handle moderate snow accumulation without dragging the underbody. The three-row SUV design provides:

• Adult-sized seating in all three rows
• Substantial cargo space (up to 2,387 litres behind the first row when seats are folded)
• Body structure built on Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform for rigidity and stability

Fuel Efficiency and Range

Winter driving typically reduces fuel efficiency due to increased electrical loads (heating systems, defrosters), tire friction on snow, and engine warmup cycles. Here's how the Highlander lineup addresses range:

Gas Models:

• Fuel tank capacity sufficient for extended highway driving
• Turbocharged engine delivers power without excessive fuel consumption
• Eight-speed transmission optimizes ratios for highway cruising

Hybrid Models:

• Combined fuel economy of 6.7 L/100 km
• Extended range between fuel stops
• Regenerative braking system recovers energy during deceleration (useful in stop-and-go winter traffic)

Which Highlander Configuration Fits Your Winter Driving?

For Highway Commuters

Highlander Hybrid XLE: The hybrid system's fuel efficiency pays off quickly if you're covering significant highway mileage. The instant torque from the rear electric motor provides confident merging and passing on winter highways.

For Mixed Urban and Highway Driving

Highlander XLE Gas or XSE Gas: The turbocharged gas engine provides strong performance, and the AWD systems handle typical winter conditions. The XSE adds Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD and sport-tuned suspension if you value more responsive handling.

For Maximum Winter Capability

Highlander Limited or Platinum (Gas or Hybrid): These trims include Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (gas models) or electronic on-demand AWD (hybrid models) along with the most comprehensive cold-weather features including heated and ventilated front seats, premium lighting systems, and advanced visibility technology.

For Towing in Winter

Highlander Gas Models (All Trims): The 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity on gas models handles most trailer needs. Trailer Sway Control helps manage trailer stability in winter wind and road conditions.

Complete 2026 Highlander Pricing

Experience the Highlander at Erin Park Toyota

The 2026 Toyota Highlander lineup provides multiple configurations to match different winter driving needs across Ontario. Gas and hybrid powertrains, two AWD system types, and varying levels of cold-weather features let you select the combination that fits your driving patterns. Book your test drive today at our Mississauga dealership to compare how the different Highlander models handle real-world winter conditions.